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BMC commences Rs 41 crore repairs on 51 bridges post-structural audit advice

In adherence to the recommendations arising from a comprehensive structural audit, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is poised to embark on an extensive repair undertaking for 51 bridges spanning the distance from Malad to Andheri. This ambitious project is allocated a budgetary provision of Rs 41 crore, encompassing various charges and taxes. M/s CE Infra (India) emerged as the triumphant bidder among three competitors, securing the contract at a notable 23.40% below the estimated cost of Rs 35 crore. The multifaceted repairs, slated for completion within 12 months, inclusive of the challenging monsoon season, will address various issues such as bearing replacements, concrete crack filling, and the fortification of girders, dividers, and walls. To initiate this comprehensive endeavour, the civic body engaged the services of M/s SGS Consultancy Services to conduct thorough surveys of bridges situated in the P/South (Goregaon), P/North (Malad), and K/West (Andheri West) wards. The ensuing suggestions underscored the necessity for both minor and major repairs to these crucial infrastructural elements. The proposed plan encompasses a spectrum of activities, ranging from the meticulous replacement of bearings to the precise filling of concrete cracks. Furthermore, the initiative addresses the rectification of structural gaps, the reinforcement of girders, dividers, and walls, along with the systematic replacement of dilapidated elements, as articulated by a municipal official familiar with the matter. This proactive approach to bridge maintenance stems from the sobering incident of the Himalaya Bridge collapse at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in 2019. This unfortunate event served as a catalyst, compelling authorities to undertake a strategic and periodic examination of the structural integrity of various bridges across the city. In line with this commitment, the BMC is instituting biannual structural audits to pre-emptively identify vulnerabilities and implement necessary repairs, thereby fortifying Mumbai's critical infrastructure against potential risks. The significance of this comprehensive repair initiative extends beyond immediate structural considerations, emphasizing the civic body's commitment to the safety and longevity of essential structures for Mumbai's residents. Over the next 12 months, repairs will navigate challenges, including the unpredictable monsoon, ensuring a resilient and sustainable bridge infrastructure network for the city. Structural audits involve a thorough examination of buildings, encompassing verification of load conditions, evaluation of the structural system, and detection of defects, damages, distress, deformation, or deterioration. This process is initiated by appointing a registered consulting structural engineer with BMC, NMMC, or TMC. The auditing phases include visual inspection, where engineers identify visible issues, non-destructive testing (NDT), and the generation of an analysis report.

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